Pope to Visit Czech Republic for First Time in 17 Years

The Pope will visit the Czech Republic after accepting an invitation from President Petr Pavel. The Vatican press service confirmed the planned visit following a meeting between the pontiff and the Czech head of state, highlighting the strong relations between the Czech Republic and the Holy See. The last papal visit to the country took place in 2009.

Summer Holidays Nearly Sold Out as Demand Rises by 20%

Summer holiday packages for June to August are already close to selling out, with only a limited number of last-minute deals expected, according to travel industry estimates. Compared to last year, demand has increased by around 20 percent. Families with children and travellers with specific needs are booking earlier than usual. Czech tourists are also increasingly choosing new destinations and higher-quality services, including all-inclusive resorts, private transfers and more comfortable flights.

Czech Gas Imports Rise by 25%, Supplied Entirely from the West

Natural gas imports to the Czech Republic increased by roughly a quarter last year, reaching 6.78 billion cubic metres. All supplies came from western sources, with no Russian gas included. The rise is linked to higher consumption, greater use of storage facilities during winter and renewed deliveries to neighbouring countries.

Karlovy Vary Resident Wins Nearly CZK 200 Million in Sportka Lottery

A resident of the Karlovy Vary region has won almost CZK 200 million in the Czech Sportka lottery. The winning ticket was purchased at a petrol station for CZK 220. The winner has up to one year to claim the prize and will be required to pay a 15 percent tax.

Parliamentary Committee Delays Decision on Lifting Babiš and Okamura’s Immunity

The Chamber of Deputies’ Mandates and Immunity Committee has suspended discussions on court requests to lift the parliamentary immunity of Andrej Babiš and Tomio Okamura for criminal prosecution. The committee formally has two more weeks to decide, but given the current political climate, approval of the requests is considered unlikely.

Russia’s Foreign Minister Comments on Czech Republic’s Role in Europe

Russia’s foreign minister said the Czech Republic is among the European countries where, in his words, “the voice of healthy forces” focused on national interests can be heard. At the same time, he described Europe as the source of humanity’s largest disasters and accused European states of undermining peace initiatives related to Ukraine.